A Grand Day Out

Mr Thomas Mvula, Deputy at Katawa Primary and our friend for several years invited us to go to see his home area and family, near the Zambian border. It was an early start at 6.30a.m.  Part of our journey was on tarmac road and part on rough track. The final part of the track was very rutted, dry and dusty; we were truly going right into rural Malawi.  In the clearing we arrived at a couple of brick houses with children playing outside. This was the home of Thomas’ elder sister.  We were warmly greeted by Thomas’ nephew who invited us to enter his home.  Slowly and quietly the children crept to the door to peek in at us.  However, they were all welcomed in.

We were introduced to the family members.  Thomas’ nephew spoke fluent English but he was delighted to hear our attempts at Chitumbuka. He spoke clearly and slowly for us so I am certain we would learn the language quickly if we stayed in the village.  Our visit was a very special occasion because this was the first time a white person had entered the house and indeed the village.  For the children it was their first time to see and indeed meet a white person so it was understandable that they just wanted to sit and gaze at us. We both felt very honoured and humble to be given such a lovely welcome.

Thomas Mvula with his sister and family

Inside the house was amazingly cool, despite the scorching sun outside. The brick walls were very high while the cemented floor was smooth and cool.  The window space had been bricked up although there were rays of daylight peeking through and air circulating. Compared to Scottish houses, there is a lack of furniture; only one table and a few chairs.  In the corner stood 2 clay water pots. Some of the children brought in a little portable wooden stool to sit on.

Exchange of gifts

 When it was time for food, the ladies went outside to prepare while the men and guest (us) sat at the table.  We were served nsima, beans, greens and meat/ chicken. Fortunately, we were given forks to eat rather than being expected to use our hands. It was a lovely meal. Afterwards we exchanged gifts and took many photos. Thomas’ nephew told us he worked at the local stone quarry.  Blue stone and white stone are purchased by many people coming from other areas and countries. When speaking with one of the boys, he told us there was a football pitch locally but now they did not have a football so when we visit again we will try to take one.

Afterwards we travelled a very short distance to meet Tomas' elder brother and the rest of the family in their village. Once again we created great excitement and we were warmly greeted. We were amazed to be told someone had walked 3 hours in the blistering heat, just to meet us. 

Thomas with his elder brother and wife

Everyone at the village